Policy Development and Administration

How University Policies are developed

All NAU community members may propose a new policy, or an improvement to an existing policy by preparing an impact statement. For assistance, speak with your policy liaison, the Policy Coordinator, or the head of the prospective Responsible Office. To advance, University Policy development proposals must be officially sponsored by the prospective Responsible Executive with subject matter jurisdiction.

Policy writers must use NAU’s standard template to prepare their draft University Policy documents.

The Responsible Executive will then assign the new policy idea to the appropriate Responsible Office for further investigation, stakeholder engagement, and perhaps the drafting of preliminary policy text. Policy writers must use the University Policy template to format their policy documents. View the FAQ for quick answers to common policy questions, or read the policy on policies for a complete understanding of how University Policies are developed and administered.

How University Policies are administered

Each University Policy is owned by the Responsible Office or offices who rely on it for their daily work. All University Polices are supervised by at least one Responsible Executive, who is usually a member of the President’s executive team. Together, these officials must ensure that all those affected by University Policies have meaningful opportunities to learn about the policy’s intent and purpose, and any standards, requirements, or constraints it may establish. They are also responsible for ensuring compliance with their policies.

NAU community members must know and comply with all University Policies applicable to their duties or activities.

Because of the important role policy plays in good governance, risk mitigation, and effective administration, all NAU community members, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, volunteers, visitors, and all persons or entities who may provide services to or act as agents for the University, are responsible for knowing and complying with all University Policies applicable to their duties, responsibilities, or activities.